Courses
Dental Hygiene-2025/2026
| Level 1 | ||||
| Gen Ed - Take a 3 credit General Education elective course | ||||
| Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
| WRIT-1048 | Reason & Writing 1 for Health Sciences | 3 | ||
| This course will introduce health sciences students to essential principles of reading, writing, and reasoning at the postsecondary level. Students will identify, summarize, analyze, and evaluate multiple short readings and write persuasive response essays to develop their vocabulary, comprehension, grammar, and critical thinking. | ||||
| ANAT-1027 | Anatomy & Physiology | 3 | ||
| This introductory course involves the study and review of the structures and functions of the human body. The major body systems are presented through an examination of the relationship between structure and function, the concept of homeostasis and the interrelationship of the body organ systems. The material includes anatomical terminology, with an examination of the major body systems. | ||||
| BIOL-1017 | Oral Microbiology & Immunology | 3 | ||
| This hybrid online course introduces the student to the study of general and oral microbiology and introductory immunology. An overview of microbiological classifications, ecology, epidemiology, and pathogenesis will be presented along with an introduction to innate and acquired immunity and the inflammatory response to oral pathogens. Emphasis will be placed on the pathogenic bacteria, viruses and yeasts of dental importance. | ||||
| DENT-1037 | Dental Hygiene Radiography 1 | 2.5 | ||
| This course provides a basic knowledge of radiation generation, factors influencing image formation, radiation hazards, and safety codes. The student will be introduced to dental radiography equipment and the techniques for exposing, processing, and mounting radiographs. Quality assurance and asepsis control considerations will be emphasized. Application of the Process of Care model will be outlined with all aspects of client exposure, safety and radiographic protocol considerations. | ||||
| DENT-1045 | Dental Hygiene Theory & Practice 1 | 6.5 | ||
| This course establishes the foundation for the theory and pre-clinical skills required for client care. Theory relates to study of the fundamentals of the dental hygiene process of care with particular emphasis on assessment skills, instrumentation, principles of ergonomics, health and safety, infection control procedures and response to basic medical emergencies. Integration of concepts studied in other courses will prepare students for practical application of dental hygiene process of care. Practical experiences relate to the concepts and principles of client assessment, instrumentation, and preparation for implementation of additional dental hygiene skills. | ||||
| DENT-1046 | Health Promotion & Disease Prevention 1 | 3 | ||
| This course is an introduction to oral health promotion with emphasis on oral health education and disease prevention strategies for the individual client. The etiology and pathogenesis of common hard and soft tissue oral infections and oral self-care measures to control them are introduced. Indications for mechanical devices and chemical agents used to promote oral health are supported by current research and best practices. A determinants of health approach to client education, including theories of behavioural change and principles of learning are explored. | ||||
| DENT-1047 | Professional Practice 1 | 3 | ||
| This course relates to the profession of dental hygiene and the regulatory context for dental hygiene practice. The historical progression of the profession of dental hygiene in Ontario will be examined including the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991, The College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario, dental hygiene scope of practice and recognition of the various roles of the dental hygienist. The significance of standards of practice, quality assurance, ethical principles, collaborative care, and the role of professional associations will be explored. As primary healthcare professionals, dental hygienists require communication skills (verbal, written, electronic). This course will introduce interpersonal and electronic communication techniques for professional interactions. | ||||
| Level 2 | ||||
| Gen Ed - Take a 3 credit General Education elective course | ||||
| Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
| DENT-3025 | Oral Histology & Embryology | 3 | ||
| This course includes the general embryological principles related to the formation of the face, neck, oral cavity and dental structures. An understanding of embryological and histological theory will assist the student in his/her assessments along the health-disease continuum and in the provision of evidence based dental hygiene care in the clinical setting. | ||||
| DENT-3027 | Dental Hygiene Theory & Practice 2 | 6.5 | ||
| This course is a continuation of Dental Hygiene Theory & Practice 1 which establishes the foundation for the theory and pre-clinical skills required for client care. Theory relates to study of the fundamentals of the dental hygiene process of care with particular emphasis on instrumentation, assessments, documentation, principles of ergonomics, health and safety, and response to basic medical emergencies. Integration of concepts studied in other courses will prepare students for practical application of dental hygiene process of care. Practical experiences relate to the concepts and principles of client assessment, instrumentation, and preparation for implementation of additional dental hygiene skills. The student will be expected to integrate theory from other courses, monitor his/her progress, demonstrate initiative, and work in a collaborative manner with faculty and peers. | ||||
| DENT-3023 | Health Promotion & Disease Prevention 2 | 3 | ||
| The course builds upon the basic theory presented in Health Promotion & Disease Prevention 1, with a continued study of disease prevention and behavioural change strategies according to the Process of Care Model. Knowledge of disease indicators, risk factors and protective factors to determine oral disease risk levels are integrated into oral health assessments. A variety of evidence-based preventative and therapeutic interventions that promote oral health and injury prevention are discussed. Tobacco product use and the role of the dental hygienist in cessation strategies are introduced. Students will plan, implement and evaluate an oral health promotion program using a comprehensive client profile. | ||||
| DENT-3045 | Dental Hygiene Radiography 2 | 2 | ||
| This course provides the student with laboratory experience in exposing and processing quality intraoral films, using the principles of paralleling, bisecting and bitewing techniques on manikins, as well as the study of special imaging techniques. The focus of the course is on radiographic recognition and assessment. The student will develop skills in identifying normal anatomical landmarks and abnormal or pathological conditions on radiographs. The didactic and practical elements of dental radiography will be applied using the principles of radiation production and protection according to current legislation. | ||||
| DENT-3024 | Head, Neck & Dental Anatomy | 3 | ||
| This course relates to the study of dental, and head and neck anatomy including: oral anatomical landmarks; the relationship between structure and function of bones, muscles, nerves, blood vessels, oral soft tissues, salivary glands and the periodontium; tooth morphology and function; the temporomandibular joint; and occlusion. The impact of head, neck, and dental anatomy on dental hygiene practice decisions will be emphasized. | ||||
| DENT-1048 | Dental Materials 1 | 2 | ||
| This course relates to the classification, physical and mechanical properties of various dental materials used in dental hygiene, restorative dentistry, and the various dental specialities. Emphasis will be placed on theoretical knowledge acquisition and practical skill development and demonstration of dental materials associated with dental hygiene practice. | ||||
| Level 3 | ||||
| Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
| DENT-3028 | Periodontology | 3 | ||
| This course relates to the anatomy, histology, microbiology and pathology of those tissues that surround and support the teeth. Disease processes affecting the periodontal tissues and the fields of preventive and therapeutic periodontics will also be studied with emphasis on the clinical role of the dental hygienist. Integration of knowledge from other courses will support further study in phases of periodontal therapy and periodontal surgery. This course builds on information introduced in earlier semesters. | ||||
| DENT-3029 | Pathophysiology & Pharmacology | 3 | ||
| This course will be an introduction to human disease and will focus on the fundamental principles of homeostatic mechanisms. The student will explore how alterations in homeostatic mechanisms will disrupt the human body. Mechanisms of disease will be studied by systems and will be examined for the effect that they produce on the structure and function of the body. Common diseases will be used to illustrate concepts. In addition, the study of pharmaceuticals used to treat general health problems will be explored, including consideration of their origin, physical and chemical properties, modes of administration and effects on the body system. | ||||
| DENT-3030 | Nutrition & Oral Health | 2 | ||
| This course relates to the role of nutrition in the etiology and management of general and oral health. The relationship between nutritional status and health through the lifespan will be explored including the major biological functions of all basic nutrients; water, carbohydrates, lipids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Canadas Food Guide will be used as the basis for qualitative dietary analysis. Signs & symptoms of nutritional deficiencies will be reviewed. The role of each nutrient in the development and maintenance of oral health will be emphasized. An introduction to nutritional counselling will prepare students for an individualized client care approach to health promotion and treatment planning. Collaboration between the dental hygienist and nutritionist/ dietician will be emphasized, including the roles and responsibilities of each discipline and when a client referral is required. | ||||
| DENT-3031 | Research Methods | 2 | ||
| This course relates to the principles and methods used in health research including both quantitative and qualitative research. An overview of research methodology, rigor, bias and research ethics will be included to ensure the student can critically appraise a research paper. Students will be introduced to the methods used to present and describe information as well as some ability to draw conclusions about data based on samples. The selection and use of summary values such as measures of central tendency and variation are examined as well as some inferential statistical techniques. An introduction to concepts and common terms used in epidemiology will set a foundation for further studies in oral health trends. | ||||
| DENT-3032 | Dental Materials 2 | 2.5 | ||
| This course builds upon content from Dental Materials 1 by providing didactic knowledge and practical application in the areas of additional preventative and therapeutic procedures within the dental hygiene scope of practice. In addition, this course broadens knowledge of various dental specialties and explains the role of the Dental Hygienist to assist clients in assessing dental treatment options in the context of the Dental Hygiene Process of Care Model and the CDHO Standards of Practice. | ||||
| DENT-1051 | Clinical Practice 1 | 8 | ||
| This course relates to the transition from pre-clinical to the clinical environment and the application of dental hygiene process concepts, knowledge, skills and judgment in client care. Theory relates to radiographic interpretation, pediatrics, and treatment planning. Practical relates to the dental hygiene skills necessary to provide oral healthcare that meets the clients unique needs. Students will apply the dental hygiene process in a variety of client experiences based on age and difficulty. | ||||
| PSYC-1082 | Psychology: A Case Study Perspective | 3 | ||
| This health-focused course uses cases studies and psychological theories to examine who we are and how we can promote health and wellness. By exploring mind-body connections, discussing ways to improve health, and examining our behaviours and motivations, this course identifies strategies to identify and modify behaviours that are unhealthy or dangerous. Understanding our relationships and interactions with others, including patients and other healthcare professionals, is examined. Further, this course will provide insight into yourself and promote better understandings of our social influences on our behaviours. | ||||
| Level 4 | ||||
| Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
| PHRM-5004 | Pharmacology | 2 | ||
| This area relates to the use of pharmaceuticals to treat general and oral health problems. The study of drugs used in dental treatment will include consideration for their origin, physical and chemical properties, modes of administration and effects on the body system. The subject area also includes a study of the impact of client medication (prescribed or over-the -counter) on oral structures and treatment, pain management and the management of clients with various medical considerations. Attention will also be directed to using and prescribing drugs and pain management within the dental hygiene scope of practice. | ||||
| DENT-5026 | Oral Pathology | 2 | ||
| This course will build upon the existing principles covered in the areas of pathology using mainly oral diseases as examples. Students will learn about general pathology where applicable. Emphasis will be on the clinical, radiographic, histological & immunological features of oral pathologic lesions. | ||||
| DENT-3047 | Clinical Practice 2 | 8 | ||
| This course is a continuation of Clinical Practice 1. Students will continue to develop skills related to the application of dental hygiene process concepts, knowledge, skills, and judgment in client care. Theory relates to advanced principles of instrumentation and pain management with an emphasis on the assessment, planning and evaluation phases of care. Empathy and awareness for individuals who have physical, cognitive, psychological, sensory or emotional needs will be explored. Recognition of barriers that influence access to care and how to modify care to meet the unique needs of clients with disabilities will be emphasized. Practice relates to the dental hygiene skills necessary to provide oral healthcare that meets the clients unique needs. Students will apply the dental hygiene process in a variety of client experiences based on a wider range of age and difficulty. Students will be required to synthesize data, integrate knowledge from related courses, and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to evidence-based client care. Students will display more independence in making decisions and assume a greater level of accountability for all elements of client care. Emphasis is placed on maintaining a collaborative relationship with the client and other health care professionals. | ||||
| DENT-3034 | Community Health Practice 1 | 3.2 | ||
| This course relates to the role of the dental hygienist within the fields of health promotion and health education as well as community and public health. The course will introduce strategies for oral health promotion under marketing and mass media use, health education, inter-professional collaboration and community organization. The dental hygiene process of care model as it relates to community oral health will also be examined. A study of epidemiological data assessment including current trends in health will introduce the importance of evidence-based oral health promotion. The principles of teaching and learning coupled with the processes in program planning and evaluation will establish the foundation for more advanced courses and facilitate learning in community settings. | ||||
| DENT-3035 | Professional Practice 2 | 3 | ||
| This course relates to the foundations for ethical decision making in dental hygiene. Ethical principles and values, codes of ethics and jurisprudence will be studied as they relate to healthcare. The process of ethical decision making in dental hygiene will be examined as a foundation for ethical practice. This course will also focus on the obligations of the dental hygienist to provide care according to current legislation. The evolution, structure and services of the Canadian healthcare system will be examined in this course. This course will also cover the current state of healthcare in Canada including reform, disparities and inequities in the experience of health and health services and will identify how the dental hygienist can advocate for positive health care outcomes. | ||||
| HLTH-3009 | Multiculturalism in Health Care | 3 | ||
| This fully online course will introduce the student to the impact of multiculturalism on Canadian health care in general, and on oral health care in particular. The course will examine the underlying roots of the inconsistencies in health care delivery to vulnerable populations, the impact of stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination on clients' and caregivers' perceptions of health care, and the steps being taken to improve the future delivery of equitable health care to all segments of a multicultural population. | ||||
| DENT-3021 | Gerontology & Oral Health | 2 | ||
| This course presents the student with a variety of issues relating to the psychological, cognitive and social dimensions of aging. The course will assist the student in developing a personal philosophy of aging as well as applying knowledge of the aging process in a holistic manner. Students will develop an awareness of the considerations for individuals with special needs including alternative modalities to ensure optimal client care. Emphasis will be placed on the Canadian perspective and the role that dental hygiene professionals play in maintaining and improving the oral health and total well-being of the older adult. | ||||
| Level 5 | ||||
| Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
| DENT-5027 | Clinical Practice 3 | 10 | ||
| This course is a continuation of Clinical Practice 2 and relates to the clinical environment and the consolidation of knowledge, skills and judgment to support the dental hygiene process of care. Theory relates to advanced principles of pain management with an emphasis on the assessment, planning and evaluation phases of care. Students will apply the dental hygiene process in a variety of client experiences based on a wider range of age and difficulty. Students will be required to synthesize data, integrate knowledge from related courses, and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to evidence based client care. Students will display more independence in making clinical decisions and assume a greater level of accountability for all elements of client care. Emphasis is placed on maintaining a collaborative relationship with the client and other health care professionals. | ||||
| DENT-5020 | Community Health Practice 2 | 5.25 | ||
| This course relates to service learning through community placement experiences and oral health programs aimed at a target population. Experiencing interaction with clients and populations that do not access traditional dental/dental hygiene services will allow students to gain insight into unique community needs. Students will gain experience with program planning, service delivery and evaluation, as well as interprofessional collaboration in a variety of community and Long Term Care settings. | ||||
| DENT-3040 | Orthodontics for the Dental Hygienist | 3 | ||
| This course focuses on the role of the dental hygienist in all aspects of orthodontic therapy, including the recognition of malocclusion, and the maintenance of the client's oral and periodontal health during and after orthodontic treatment. Emphasis will be on the process of care in the treatment of malocclusion using fixed and removable orthodontic appliances. Regulatory responsibilities and the orthodontic practice environment will also be studied. Students will gain practical lab experience with associated clinical skills such as placement and removal of brackets, bands, and placement of arch wires. | ||||
| DENT-3041 | Dental Hygiene Practice Management 1 | 3 | ||
| This course relates to the key elements for the development of a business opportunity. Students will also be exposed to the basic business concepts for establishing and operating a successful small business in their chosen healthcare field, and the guidelines provided by the appropriate College and/or regulatory agency. The role of the regulated professional as an employee or self-employed will be considered in the context of establishing job expectations, contractual agreements, advertising regulations and conflict of interest. The relevance of operating policies, documentation management and health and safety will be considered as it relates to the dental hygienist as an employer. Students will be exposed to the responsibilities and realities of operating an independent dental hygiene practice such as financial responsibility and functions as an employer to the employees of the facility. | ||||
| DENT-3042 | Professional Practice 3 | 2 | ||
| This course will focus on the legal and regulatory aspects of the dental hygiene profession that will prepare the student for registration with the CDHO. Included is a detailed review of the RHPA, DHA and regulations affecting dental hygiene practice in Ontario. Particular emphasis will be placed on the registrants mandatory reporting obligations, the CDHO's drug regulation, complaints and discipline process, and quality assurance program. | ||||
| Level 6 | ||||
| Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
| DENT-5028 | Clinical Practice 4 | 9 | ||
| This course is a continuation of Clinical Practice 3 and relates to the clinical environment and the transition to the entry to practice clinician, continuing to demonstrate knowledge, skills and judgment to support the dental hygiene process of care. The clinical applications relates to consolidation of problem-solving and critical thinking skills while improving time management and efficiency as students gain further experience through clinical cases using evidence based practice. The student will demonstrate independent entry to practice skills such as time management, efficiency and effective client management through all phases of the process of care. The student is expected to take a lead role in coordination of all elements of the client care including referrals to facilitate collaboration with the client and other health care professionals. | ||||
| DENT-5025 | Evidence Based Practice | 2 | ||
| This course examines the process of evidence based decision making (EBDM) to solve clinical problems. Five steps in EBDM will be examined: converting a problem into a clinical question; conducting an efficient, effective search; critically appraising the evidence; applying the results; and evaluating the process and performance. This course will build on a basic knowledge of statistics as it relates to the principles and methods used in health research. The student will share disseminated information using written and oral communication. | ||||
| DENT-5024 | Professional Practice 4 | 3 | ||
| This course will consider the impact of health policy on self and society. A broader overview of how policies are developed will allow for the discussion of health issues in need of policy decisions and the evaluation of policy alternatives. The role of advocacy by individuals in society as well as stakeholder groups will be considered as it relates to influencing policy directions. An overview of policy writing will be provided. Particular attention will be focused on oral issues in need of policy decisions and oral health care policies in Canada. | ||||
| DENT-5023 | Dental Hygiene Practice Management 2 | 2 | ||
| This course focuses on aspects of a dental hygiene practice related to dental reception, dental insurance and billing as well as practice management standards of the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario. Students will build upon concepts from Dental Hygiene Practice Management 1 relating to: client information systems, office policies, and business and financial information systems. Computers and information technology will be utilized with an emphasis on their application in dental hygiene business management. Effective resume writing and interview skills will be reviewed from the perspectives of employer and prospective employee. | ||||
| DENT-5022 | Community Health Practice 3 | 6.5 | ||
| This course relates to the dental hygienist as part of an interprofessional healthcare team. Students will engage in oral health promotion activities as part of interprofessional teams through practical experiences in a variety of settings, including Long-Term Care, community-governed primary health care, and community-based supportive services. Through these experiences students will develop skills in communicating the role of the dental hygienist and gain a deeper understanding of other professions. Recognizing the relative strengths of each group and managing conflict will also be reviewed. Students will refine their critical reflection skills, focusing on the intersections of oral health inequities and the social determinants of health to develop evidence-informed oral health programs in the community. | ||||
| Gen Ed - Electives | ||||
| Take 6 General Education Credits - Normally taken in Levels 1 and 2 | ||||
| Program Residency | ||||
| Students Must Complete a Minimum of 36 credits in this program at Fanshawe College to meet the Program Residency requirement and Graduate from this program | ||||